Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

I thank the Taoiseach for his reply and for setting out the details of what was clearly a full and successful programme during his visit to the US. I welcome the appointment of Mr. Gabriel Byrne as Ireland's cultural ambassador, but can the Taoiseach tell the House a bit more about what this appointment means? What exactly will he do and what supports are being provided to him? Are staff, offices and infrastructure provided? What does it actually mean?

I understand that the Taoiseach spoke with President Obama about the strengthening of economic ties between Ireland and the US, which again is very welcome. Was there any discussion of the President Obama's initial plans to make changes in the US tax regime that might have impacted on the American companies that invest in Ireland? When the President was elected, there was some concern that changes in the US tax regime would have a negative impact on US companies investing abroad, including Ireland.

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